NAFDAC arrests fake alcoholic beverage producer in Rivers

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says its operatives have arrested a producer of fake beverages in Rivers state.

In a statement on Wednesday, NAFDAC said the suspect, identified as Anthony Chidi, was apprehended at Mile 3 Market, Diobu, Port Harcourt, Rivers state capital.

The agency said Chidi was producing counterfeit alcoholic beverages in unsanitary conditions.

“He was caught inside a filthy shop washing used bottles of various alcoholic brands, which he refilled with unwholesome drinks for resale,” the statement reads.

“During the raid, officials discovered dirty empty bottles, ethanol, bottle caps, and packaging materials.

“Chidi admitted to running the illicit operation for about a year, sourcing labels from Aba and purchasing used bottles.”

The agency said operatives evacuated the shop, confiscating all items found on site for further investigation.

In recent weeks, NAFDAC has embarked on a crackdown on fake drugs and products in Nigeria.

The agency embarked on a sweeping enforcement operation across the country’s three major open drug markets of Onitsha, Aba and Lagos.

The operation was executed in Ariaria and Eziukwu markets (Aba), Bridge Head Market (Onitsha), and Idumota drug market (Lagos).